As Simeon “blessed God,” Joseph and Mary marveled. Then, he blessed them. It was common in Jewish culture and in the early church to bless people. 

Old Simeon prophesied, “This Child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel. Many would stumble over Him, but many would be lifted up. He would be a sign which shall be spoken against.”

He said to Mary, “A sword shall pierce through thy own soul also.” I wonder, how many times did she recall those words? Surely she heard them again at the cross. 

Through Jesus, the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed. Jesus calls us to make a decision. As Simeon finished speaking, an older woman named Anna came up to them. She was 84 years old, having been widowed after only seven years.

She had spent those long years serving God. She departed not from the temple. She served the Lord with fasting and prayers both night and day.  

In that instant of Simeon’s greatest joy, she gave thanks likewise unto the Lord and spoke of Him [Jesus] to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

Both Simeon and Anna looked for Jesus with eager anticipation. They were fully met by Jesus that day! Do you eagerly anticipate the Lord’s return? He is coming again. Are you ready? Christmas has now come and gone. We’ve moved on. Please do not move on from the tremendous blessing of being a Christ-follower.